Caminos del Condoy: Boiling water, Mitla. Mezcal

Crawling Through the Wonders of Oaxaca with Caminos del Condoy

If you’re looking for a full-day adventure that combines natural marvels, ancient sites, and local flavors, this Caminos del Condoy tour offers a compelling mix. For just $16 per person and about 10 hours of exploration, you’ll visit Hierve el Agua, one of only two petrified waterfalls in the world, the Tule Tree, famous for its enormous size, and the archaeological treasure of Mitla. Led by a Spanish-speaking guide, this tour is a well-priced way to experience some of Oaxaca’s most emblematic sights.

What we especially appreciate about this experience is how it balances stunning scenery with cultural insights. The trip’s highlight, of course, is the Hierve el Agua, where the mineral-rich waters have formed spectacular “waterfalls” that look like they’ve frozen in time. Plus, the opportunity to visit Mitla and learn about Zapotec history adds depth. A notable bonus is the mezcal tasting at a local palenque, which offers a genuine taste of Oaxaca’s famed spirit.

One potential consideration is that the tour has a pretty packed schedule, which some travelers found a bit rushed, especially in larger groups. Also, the admission fees for certain attractions like Hierve el Agua, the Tule Tree, and Mitla are not included in the price, so budget accordingly. This tour is best suited for active travelers comfortable with a full day on the go and eager to see several highlights without spending a fortune.

If you’re looking for an authentic, value-packed overview of Oaxaca’s best spots—not just tourist traps—this tour could be just the ticket. It’s particularly suitable for those who enjoy natural wonders, archaeological sites, and local crafts. Overall, a reliable choice that offers a good mix of scenery, culture, and fun.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Natural Wonder: Hierve el Agua’s petrified waterfalls are a highlight, offering breathtaking views and photo opportunities.
• Cultural Insights: The visit to Mitla provides a glimpse into Oaxaca’s ancient Zapotec civilization.
• Authentic Experience: The mezcal tasting at a local palenque makes this tour stand out with genuine local flavor.
• Value for Money: At $16, the tour covers transportation and insurance, with optional entrance fees paid separately.
• Guided Expertise: Spanish-speaking guides like Alex are praised for their energy and knowledge.
• Important to Know: Entrance fees are not included, and the schedule can feel rushed, especially in larger groups.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

This tour begins early in the morning at El Andador Travel & Tours Office on Av. Morelos in Oaxaca’s city center, around 8:30 am. We appreciated arriving a little earlier to settle in, ensuring no rush at departure time. From there, transportation whisks us away through scenic countryside, giving us a taste of rural Oaxaca even before we hit the main sites.

Visiting Hierve el Agua

Our first stop is Hierve el Agua, a natural wonder where mineral-laden waters have carved out petrified waterfalls that resemble frozen cascades stretching over lush green cliffs. These formations are thousands of years old, formed by mineral deposits left behind as water bubbles up from underground springs. The views are mesmerizing—imagine standing on a cliff edge overlooking a valley with these otherworldly formations in view. We loved the way the sunlight played on the mineral-rich pools, creating shimmering reflections.

The tour includes some free time to explore, take photos, or even dip your toes in the chilly pools. Keep in mind, the entrance fee isn’t included, so you’ll want to bring some cash (about 20-50 MXN per person). Many travelers mentioned feeling that the time at Hierve el Agua was just right—enough to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed, as noted by a traveler from Spain who said the guide “had a great energy, making the experience even more fun.”

The Tule Tree and Mitla

Next, we stopped in San Pablo Villa de Mitla, a town famous for its archaeological site and the Tule Tree. The Tule is renowned for having one of the largest trunk diameters in the world, with some reviews describing it as “amazing” and “massive.” The entrance fee here isn’t included, but it’s worth seeing the gnarled, centuries-old branches up close.

Mitla itself is a must-see archaeological site, known for its intricate stone mosaics and unique Zapotec architecture. While the entrance fee adds to your costs, the site offers a fascinating window into ancient Oaxaca. Our guide, Alex, was praised for his informative commentary, making complex history accessible and engaging. Some visitors felt the schedule was tight, but most appreciated the chance to glimpse a site less crowded than Monte Alban.

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Mezcal Palenque Experience

Finally, the tour includes a visit to a mezcal distillery, where you can see how this iconic spirit is made from agave. Sampling fresh mezcal gives you a taste of Oaxaca’s craftsmanship; some reviewers described this as “the highlight” of their trip. It’s a fun, informal way to connect with local traditions, and the guide often shares stories about mezcal’s cultural significance.

While the cost of the tasting isn’t included in the base price, many found it worthwhile, especially as it provides context to Oaxaca’s vibrant craft scene.

Overall Experience

Throughout the day, transportation was comfortable and punctual. The group size was large (around 40 people), which some travelers found a bit chaotic, but it also meant more camaraderie. The Spanish-speaking guide was enthusiastic, with several reviews praising the guide’s knowledge and energy.

Travelers should note that this tour is not suitable for pregnant women, people with mobility impairments, or those afraid of heights, as some sites involve walking or standing on uneven terrain. Also, littering and carrying large bags are discouraged, and you’ll want to bring essentials like hat, sunscreen, change of clothes, and cash.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This full-day trip is perfect for budget-conscious travelers eager to see several of Oaxaca’s top sights without breaking the bank. It’s especially good if you enjoy natural landscapes, archaeological sites, and local spirits. If you prefer a slower pace or more personalized guides, this might feel a bit rushed, but most find it offers excellent value for the experience packed into one day.

It’s best suited for active travelers who don’t mind a full schedule and who want to maximize their sightseeing with a local, Spanish-speaking guide. If you have mobility challenges or prefer private tours, you might want to explore other options.

FAQs

Are entrance fees included in the price?
No, the tour price does not include entrance fees to Hierve el Agua, Mitla, or the Tule Tree. Be sure to bring some cash for these.

How long do we spend at each site?
The schedule is fairly packed, but most travelers get enough time to take photos, walk around, and enjoy the scenery. The guide helps keep the group on track.

Is food included?
No, meals are not included. You might want to bring snacks or plan to buy food at stops if available.

Is the tour suitable for children or seniors?
It’s best for active travelers who can handle walking and some uneven terrain. It’s not recommended for pregnant women or those with mobility issues.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, hat, sunscreen, change of clothes, camera, cash, and a daypack are recommended. Insect repellent is also suggested.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if needed.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the Caminos del Condoy tour means investing in a cost-effective way to see some of Oaxaca’s most iconic sights. You’ll experience stunning natural formations, such as Hierve el Agua’s petrified waterfalls, and explore the cultural depth of Mitla and the Tule Tree. The mezcal tasting adds a flavorful local touch, rounding out the day.

While the schedule can feel tight, the expert guides, breathtaking views, and authentic experiences make this a worthwhile adventure. It’s best for travelers who want to pack in a lot—without a hefty price tag—and are comfortable with a lively, group atmosphere.

Overall, if you’re after a balanced mix of nature, history, and local culture and appreciate good value, this tour offers a memorable slice of Oaxaca’s best.

You can check availability for your dates here: